The guide called this the "kindergarden of the United States." He meant it to describe where and when the U.S. political system was created and where the founding fathers learned to govern. I wondered if that phrase couldn't also describe the current state of the U.S. Congress.

The Senate Chamber is upstairs in Congress Hall. The viewing space is tiny and you don't get much time there, but a visit is surprisingly educational. In addition to the Senate chamber, there are offices with historical furnishings. The tour starts downstairs in the Congress and takes about 20 minutes, all told.